Feb 17 2009
Is low blood pressure okay?
High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease but what about low blood pressure? Do they pose any threat too?
A blood pressure below 90/60 mm Hg is considered as low blood pressure.
Your blood pressure varies throughout the day. The lowest blood pressure occurs when you are asleep and it increases while exercising or standing up. The variation may be as much as 30-40 mm Hg.
If you think you have a low blood pressure, the first thing you must do is check your blood pressure in standing position. If when you stand there is a large fall in blood pressure and you feel dizzy, you should seek medical advice. But if the upper limit of your blood pressure is above 80 mm Hg with no drop when you stand up, there is nothing to worry. In fact, it’s good. Research has shown that people with low blood pressures (excluding any disease) live longer than those with a higher blood pressure.
Common symptoms of low blood pressure are tiredness, weakness, blurred vision, fainting, dizziness, confusion and thirst.
Tips:
1) Always keep yourself hydrated. More fluid increases your blood volume and it helps prevent dehydration.
2) Some drugs like anti-depressants are known to cause a decreased blood pressure as a side-effect. So, if you are on any medication, it’s best that you consult your doctor.
3) Research has shown that using more salt helps increase your blood pressure. But this should be taken only after consulting your doctor as exess salt can lead to heart failure.
4) A healthy diet is always good. Adding soy sauce to your diet increases the sodium intake which will increase your blood pressure. Drink a lot of soup.
5) Using elastic stockings may help reduce the pooling of blood in your legs.
6) Take it easy! When you stand up from sitting position, breathe deeply for a few minutes.
7) When you stand and feel dizzy, cross your thighs in a scissors fashion and lean forward as much as possible. This increases the blood flow to your heart.
Good to know:
During pregnancy, blood pressure normally decreases due to changes in the blood. This is more common in first 6 months. Lying on your left side (with face turning towards the left side) will help increase circulation.
